"My lovely Christmas break with the NHS"

Just after Christmas 2023 I woke because I couldn't breathe. After talking to me for a minute or two my partner worked through his first aid. When I let out my first breath, blood gargled from my lungs. He is my hero, as I don't think I would be here if it wasn't for his quick actions.

His 999 call handler McConnell provided great support talking Sam through next steps handling the situation while sending an ambulance to us. The ambulance crew arrived in under 10 minutes.

The crew quickly calmed us and efficiently hooked me up with oxygen, BP etc. They both communicated clearly and made me feel reassured as they transported me to RVH. On arrival they did a clear hand over and spoke to my partner in the waiting room before leaving.

Despite being really busy, the ambulance bay staff provided 100% great service. I had oxygen, intravenous antibiotics, x-ray, CT Scan very soon after arrival. The doctor checked on my progress and updated me of results and next steps regularly and the nurses provided full attention.

As more emergencies arrived and my condition settled I was moved into the next room with 6 or 8 beds. Staff worked calmly with all the very ill people while handling the drunk and disorderly in an assertive and yet empathetic way. The guy in charge kept everything running smoothly while people in beds were brought in and moved on endlessly.

Next I was moved to a large space with beds tightly packed to the extent we had to be wheeled forward to have blood pressure checked, then pushed back in. I had 3 lovely people in my adjoining beds. An elderly lady, an elderly man and a young guy were cosied up beside me.

Next the lovely porter and a very nice nurse brought me to AMAU Ambulatory care. I was wheeled into a bay with no windows. It was a little space away from the world where I spent the next 5 days. Everyone I met in AMAU were delightful, and really supportive.

The male nurse was a joy.  Despite the long hours he appeared to be working, he was really well organised and great at keeping my morale up.  Dr Doherty took great care of me. She listened to me and explained all the next steps.

The nurses and auxiliaries were really hard working and very pleasant. Breakfast in bed everyday was a treat! My super family and friends called in throughout this Christmas break with gifts, films, magazines. I was totally spoiled!

Since being allowed home Dr Doherty has followed up with an appointment and more tests arranged. Staff ringing and writing from the appointments team are great. 

I had a bronchoscope in January in the City Hospital and the staff there took good care of me. Results were back to the doctor very quickly. I had a mammogram in the Ulster Hospital and once again the staff treated me well. 

Great work NHS staff and very lovely people. I hope you have a healthy and happy 2024.